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Japandi: A Quiet Elegance

With a significant portion of our organization located in Japan, Ultraleather’s ethos is inextricable from Japanese design principles. Values such as craftsmanship, connection to nature, and clarity are interwoven throughout our materials. We’re always keeping an eye on trends that prioritize these concepts as much as we do—Ultraleather was practically made for them. Japandi, which combines Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies, is one such style.

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Although it only recently cemented its place in popular awareness, Japandi dates back to the mid 1800s: upon lifting their closed-border policy, Japan saw an influx of Scandinavian craftsmen, whose own work resonated with Japanese aesthetics. The easy partnership of the two styles was forged through largely overlapping design principles. Among them are an emphasis on natural materials, organic shapes, neutral colors, simplicity, and comfort.

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This Texan residence, created by OWIU Design, offers a look at these components in action. In the kitchen, minimalist wooden cabinetry is offset by counters of exposed rock. The rough, textured stone exemplifies the Japanese design philosophy of wabi-sabi—embracing the beauty in natural imperfection. The home’s neutral palette of beige, creams, and light browns touch on the Scandinavian design aesthetic of hygge, which centers warmth and coziness. Rounded motifs lend a comforting softness; a circular wall cutout, for example, frames a trio of curved, paper lanterns above the stairwell. The overarching design scheme conjures an atmosphere of tranquility.

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Tottori, our collection inspired by the Tottori Sand Dunes of Japan, features a natural grain, soft hand, and clean, matte finish.